Craving a taste of South Korea without leaving Shanghai? Whether you're after authentic kimchi, freshly made rice cakes, or the latest K-snacks, the city's Korean supermarkets have got you covered. From well-established chains to hidden gems, these stores bring a slice of Seoul right to your doorstep.

Shanghai is home to a vibrant Korean community, and nowhere is this more evident than in its specialty supermarkets. Whether you're a longtime fan of Korean cuisine or just looking to spice up your grocery haul, these three spots – G Mart, K Mart, and W Mart – offer an unbeatable selection of Korean imports.

Ready to stock up? Let's dive in.

A Hub for Korean Essentials

Gmart is South Korea's top chain supermarket, making a name for itself in Shanghai with an extensive selection of authentic Korean products and regular discounts. For those in search of a true Korean shopping experience, Gmart is the place to be.

A Comprehensive Selection

Touted as the most authentic Korean supermarket in Shanghai, Gmart is a treasure trove of Korean culinary staples. From a wide variety of soy sauces and salts to dozens of different types of instant noodles, the selection here is unmatched. If you're serious about cooking Korean food or simply love Korean flavors, this is a must-visit.

An Excuse to Visit Korea Town

Conveniently located in Korea Town, not far from Kmart, Gmart has also expanded with a new branch in Gubei. Whether you're in the city center or in the expat-friendly Gubei area, it's easy to drop by and stock up on all your Korean food favorites.

Kimchi Galore

Kimchi fans, this is your paradise where you can get all the delicious probiotics you've been craaaaving. Gmart boasts an impressive selection of kimchi, with the sauce section alone covering two large cabinets filled with various types. Whether you like it mild, spicy, or fermented to perfection, you'll find something that suits your taste.

Popular Korean Treats

One of the highlights of Gmart is the popular Korean rice cakes available right at the entrance for just 15 yuan (around US$2). These treats are a hit among shoppers for their taste and affordability.

A Korean Snack Lover's Dream

Korean snacks are another big draw, with the store frequently updating its stock to keep pace with the latest trends from Korea. From chips to sweets and everything in between, Gmart is the perfect place to grab a haul of snacks for a weekend binge-watch session of your favorite K-dramas.

If you go

Opening hours: 8am-12pm

Address: Lane 1101, Hongquan Rd

Another Koreatown option!

K Mart, originally known as the famed 1004 Mart, has earned its place as Shanghai's most authentic Korean import supermarket. Following the wave of popularity from the hit Korean drama "My Love From The Star," the name changed, but the essence remains. Located on Korean Street for over a decade, K Mart draws consistent crowds, creating an atmosphere that feels like a slice of bustling Seoul right here in Shanghai.

A Wide Range of Korean Essentials

The supermarket offers an extensive selection of Korean products that cater to a wide variety of tastes. You'll find everything from instant noodles, snacks, and soju to milk beverages and all the seasonings you need for authentic Korean cooking. Kimchi lovers, take note – K Mart stocks over a dozen varieties of freshly prepared kimchi, offering something for every palate.

A Taste of Korea's Snack Scene

K Mart's snack corner is a highlight, bringing the vibrant street food scene of Korea right to Shanghai. A favorite among shoppers is the fish-shaped pastries, or taiyaki, which come in a range of flavors. These sweet, crispy treats add to the supermarket's authentic Korean feel, making you feel like you've stepped into a food stall on the streets of Seoul.

Handmade Kimchi by Korean Ajummas

One of the standout features of K Mart is its impressive kimchi selection. Handmade by Korean ajummas – women who are typically older and known for their expertise in household chores and food preparation – these kimchi varieties are meticulously crafted and stored in the freezer section, ready to take home and enjoy.

Rare Korean Beverages and Ice Cream

K Mart also stocks a variety of popular Korean beverages, including the iconic Binggrae milk, and an array of ice cream flavors that are hard to find anywhere else in Shanghai. These items are a treat for anyone looking to indulge in some authentic Korean refreshments.

Korean Eateries and Snack Stalls Nearby

Right next to the supermarket, you'll find a collection of Korean-run eateries and snack stalls. After you're done shopping, treat yourself to some authentic street food favorites like spicy rice cakes, jjajangmyeon, fish cakes, and rice sausages. It's the perfect way to wrap up your Korean shopping experience.

If you go

Opening hours: 10am-10pm

Address: 1/F, 1078 Hongquan Rd

W Mart .. K Mart... hmm.

Anyway, W Mart is a decent addition to the line-up of import supermarkets on Korea Street. The undeniable star here is the rice cakes. These freshly made rice cakes have gained such popularity that they often outshine the store itself. Soft and chewy on the outside, with a rich red bean paste filling and a slight hint of saltiness, they're a must-try. But make sure to visit early–by 3 or 4 pm, they're usually sold out.

Affordable Rice Crackers and More

For snack lovers, W Mart offers the biggest selection of rice crackers you'll find anywhere. These crispy treats are straight out of the Korean dramas and are super affordable, making it easy to stock up on your favorites.

Fresh Produce and Seafood

The fresh produce section at W Mart is like stepping into Jeju Island, with a range of fruits and vegetables that feel fresh from the farm. You'll also find a neatly organized seafood and fresh meat section, all laid out on spotless counters, making the shopping experience even more pleasant.

If you go

Opening hours: 7am-11pm

Address: 1000 Hongquan Rd